Tennessee, enriched with history and a beautiful landscape, has always had something special for everyone. Surrounded by eight different states, Tennessee is the 16th most populous state of the US, located in the South-eastern region. If you plan to visit Tennessee in the coming holidays or near future, a quick review of the famous tourist attractions the volunteer state has to offer should help plan a fantastic trip.
Here are the top 9 tourist attractions in Tennessee that you can visit to make your trip memorable:
1. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park
The Smokies or the Great smoky mountains national park, located in Gatlinburg, is the most popular attraction in Tennessee, treasured by adventurers and hikers. You can drive from downtown Gatlinburg and visit the most famous park areas. In addition, if you are interested in visiting the ski resort or an amusement park, Ober Gatlinburg is the place to be!
The park is full of scenic landscapes with hiking trails extending up to 900 miles, the Clingmans Dome, which is 6,643 ft in height, and the Observation Tower, with stunning views. It would be best to enjoy these mountains from spring to fall. Sugarlands and the Cades Cove are the two most beloved spots in the area.
2. The Titanic Museum
You can find loads of exciting and interesting things to do in Pigeon Forge, a small town in the state. If you are a fan of the infamous Titanic, you must fix a spot for the world’s largest Titanic-themed museum in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. The building is spectacular with the shape of the ship. While visiting this museum, you experience the illusion of being present at the Titanic due to the architecture and design of 20 unique galleries.
The museum also features more than 400 artifacts related to the world’s greatest tragedies. You can make your visit highly educational by going for a guided tour that lasts for two hours.
3. Dollywood Theme Park
Dollywood theme park is also a famous tourist destination in Pigeon Forge. This theme park attracts almost three million visitors every year, and its name comes from American singer and songwriter Dolly Parton. With the combination of local traditions and crafts, you can spend time in this park enjoying thrilling rides and other fun-filled activities for families. It includes more than 50 rides spread over 150 acres in 10 themed areas like Jukebox Junction and Timber Canyon. You can also attend concerts and festivals held at the park.
Other highlights of the park include the old steam railway named ‘The Dollywood Express’ that you can hop on to make a turn around the park. Other popular attractions in the area include Dollywood DreamMore Resort and Splash Country water park.
4. Graceland and the Elvis Presley Memphis Complex
Graceland and the Elvis Presley Memphis complex is iconic and – one of the best travel spots in Memphis. Graceland Mansion provides an opportunity for visitors to glimpse the history and life of Elvis Presley, who passed away in 1977.
The complex also narrates the King of Rock and Roll’s life story in Memphis with the help of the star’s outfits, his achievements, influences, etc. The family tomb is also worth visiting as it features a collection of memorabilia, cars, and aircraft. You can also tour Elvis’s living quarters, including the TV and music rooms, as well as the Jungle Den. In addition, you can enjoy accommodation at the famous guest house at Graceland, which offers different tour packages.
5. Andrew Jackson’s Hermitage
The hermitage of Andrew Jackson is located east of Nashville. It is the home of the seventh President of the United States from 1804-1845. You can explore the hermitage in a few hours to get to know the life of a former president. Highlights of this hermitage consist of the tomb where President Jackson was buried alongside his wife, as well as gardens and woods. It was opened for visitors in 1889 as a museum and filled with documents and artifacts related to his presidency.
6. The Lost Sea
The Lost Sea is a vast cave system with the largest underwater lake in the United States located 46 miles away from Knoxville. If you are an adventurer and love to explore caves and water sports, you will love the guided tour options. Visitors get to pass through large tunnels and caverns in a boat. The lost sea is a significant part of civil war history as Confederate soldiers used to mine the Lost Sea caverns to obtain saltpeter, a commonly used ingredient for making gunpowder. You can also visit Old Sweetwater village to explore different shops and log cabins.
7. American Museum of Science and Energy
The American Museum of Science and Energy, located in Oak Ridge, provides a unique understanding of the historical development of nuclear energy. It highlights the role of Oak Ridge in the Manhattan Project and the development of the nuclear projects by featuring photos, videos photos, documents, and artifacts. Various weapons, war tools, and protective gear are displayed at this site that focuses on national defense. In addition, you can visit this museum to get a handful of information on various energy resources, including robotics and static electricity.
8. Civil War Heritage
The famous landmarks in Tennessee, including museums, memorials, and other historical spots, mark the evidence of the civil war and deadly conflicts in history. For example, the Fort Donelson National Battlefield is a site that signifies the first major Union victory. It consists of a fort, cemetery, visitor center, and a pair of breeding eagles.
The United State’s largest military park is the Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park, located near Point Park Battlefield that holds significance for the “Battle Above the Clouds.”
Conclusion
Making a travel list for vacations is essential to make the most out of your travel experience. Of course, you cannot expect to visit every place on this list if you don’t plan your trip well before departure, so get to work! Tennessee is a culturally rich region where you can enjoy delicious food, learn more about US history, and experience the best of the Volunteer state.
Also read: Best Affordable Family Vacations to Take in the USA
